7 Trends Shaping America's Homes

October traditionally is the time when, now that the summer business frenzy has ebbed, you can spare a few minutes from daily concerns, look to the future, and ask "What's Next?" We've been asking that question, too. This month, we report on seven trends that we believe will influence what and how you'll sell. Some trends will take years before they become big deals. Others will have an impact as early as January. All deserve to be tracked on your personal radar.

Big Builders Set a New Course
Big Builders' Second Story: While they keep squeezing dealers to cut prices, big builders are cutting costs in ways that could transform life for LBM dealers-provided small builders follow the big builders' lead.

Energy Star Changes
Rising Star: The Energy Star for Homes Program enters a third, tougher phase next year. Here's how America's favorite green building program could affect you.

Think Small
The Homestead Act: The next big evolution of the American home may well include one or more sheds.

Generation Y
Hear That Echo?: Echo Boomers will define the future of homebuilding–once they define themselves.

WINKs
Don't Ignore This WINK: Single women will drive a lot of housing demand over the next decade.

Multigenerational Housing
Bringing Home the Baby: The rise in multigenerational housing means builders will have to serve multiple interests under one roof.

Universal Design
In Home, Out of Touch: Most Baby Boomers want to retire where they live now. That will necessitate accommodations to age that they're not currently willing to accept.